Uruguay is a small country in South America that is waiting to be discovered by tourists who are looking for a combination of beautiful landscapes, history and culture. Lying in South America sandwiched between Brazil and Argentina, this little but beautiful country offers tropical beaches, historic colonial cities and modern metropolis to suit all. Montevideo is the largest city of Uruguay with a vibrant culture and fast pace life while Punta del Este is a beautiful coastal town with slow and relaxed pace of life.
Tourists who seek an unadulterated beauty of nature will find Uruguay’s scenery quite serene. Cabo Polonio is one of the distant villages where one can leave the noise of the modern world behind and enjoy the Atlantic coast. However, history lovers can take a walk through the beautifully laid out cobbled streets of Colonia del Sacramento which is a World Heritage site. To this, one can only add the country’s famous Tannat wines and the traditional asado (barbecue), and get a unique experience.
However, it’s crucial to confirm the Uruguay visa requirements before starting the journey to explore the beauty of this country. Regardless if you’re envisioning sun, sand, and sea, art and history, or food and wine, Uruguay has a vacation that will create memories that you will treasure.
Below are detailed descriptions of eight essential tourist destinations in this interesting country.
1. Montevideo – A Blend of the Past and Present
Montevideo is Uruguay’s capital city that features the atmosphere of a European city and the benefits of a modern metropolis. Start your exploration in Ciudad Vieja or Old Town with its charming narrow streets and colonial architecture of houses, art studios, and cafes. Go to the Plaza Independencia and to the Solis Theater which are among the famous tourist spots in the country.
For a leisurely stroll, take a walk along the Rambla, an expansive pedestrian way that stretches about 13 miles along the coast to the Rio de la Plata. Pocitos is one of the many colourful districts of Montevideo where one can find shops, restaurants and enjoy the atmosphere of the city. And that’s it; do not leave Montevideo without trying the Uruguayan asado in one of the parrillas!
2. Punta del Este – play city of South America.
Punta del Este is Uruguay’s sophisticated sea-side tourist destination with a flavor of Saint-Tropez. Renowned for its golden beaches and vibrant nightlife, this is a perfect destination for those who love the sea and active night life.
Visit Playa Brava and watch the sculpture La Mano that represents human’s interference with the nature. Playa Mansa on the other hand is best suited for families because of the possibility of having a quiet time in the water. Nightlife in the city is vibrant with casinos, bars, and some of the finest restaurants being operational at night.
3. Colonia Del Sacramento – Step back in Time
Colonia Del Sacramento is a historical town of the Unesco World Heritage site that charms the visitors. Established in 1680, this charming town has some of the unique characteristics such as cobblestone streets, old stone walls and pastel colored buildings.
Walk around the Barrio Historico (Historic Quarter), go to the lighthouse for the vistas and take a walk beside the river for a relaxing time. The atmosphere in Colonia is very laid back which makes it an ideal destination for historians and lovers.
4. Cabo Polonio – Wild Coast
If you are seeking for a more out of the way experience, then Cabo Polonio is definitely for you. This is a very remote village that can only be accessed by 4 by 4 vehicles, which makes it even more attractive. Lacking any electricity or any modern facilities, it is an ideal place to get back to nature.
The focus here is the Cabo Polonio Lighthouse, which is situated in sand dunes and in front of the Atlantic Ocean. Tourists who love wildlife can visit the reserve to have a view of the sea lions. At night there is no light pollution so the sky is full of stars, it is really beautiful to watch.
5. Piriapolis – An Ideal Destination of a Coastal Town
Piriápolis is a beautiful and less hectic town compared to Punta Del Este which is also located near the coast. Due to its clean sand and calm water, as well as the fact that it is very popular among the locals.
For a ride to the top to have a view of the coastline head to Cerro San Antonio on the chairlift or for a walk take to the waterfront promenade. Piriapolis is also a perfect place for hiking, bicycle tours and tastings fresh seafood.
6. Salto – A Thermal Spa Haven
The city of Salto is famous for its hot springs making it a perfect place for a healing vacation. Several thermal resorts are located in the town, among which Termas del Daymán is famous for providing spa services and natural swimming pools.
Salto also has its cultural sites; these include Museo de Bellas Artes and Parque Harriague. For wine lovers there is an opportunity to taste the authentic Uruguayan Tannat wines in the local wine yards.
7. La Paloma – A Surfer’s Paradise
La Paloma is a small village more to the south which is a perfect place for surfers and people who prefer calmness. Situated on the Atlantic shore, it has sandy beaches, cliffs, and clear sea.
Playa de la Balconada is the main beach of the island and is ideal for swimming and watching the sunset while the Playa Los Botes is popular among surfers. Due to the laid back atmosphere, La Paloma is also a great place to have a rest.
8. Tacuarembo – The Heart of Gaucho Culture
To get a feel of the cowboy culture of the country, then Tacuarembó is the place to be. It is a region of large ranches, historic fairs and ethnological museums.
The Carlos Gardel Museum is devoted to the life of the famous tango singer; Fiesta de la Patria Gaucha is a bright music and dance festival along with the performance of rodeos. This place gives a sneak peek of the rural side and warmth of Uruguay.
Conclusion
Before you set out, check if you have the rights Uruguay visa that will enable you have a hassle free trip. The visa application is quite easy and only needs a passport, travel schedule and proof of accommodation. Whether you are walking around numerous historic towns or lying on the clean sandy beaches, Uruguay offers an unforgettable vacation. Are you ready to see the beauty of Uruguay? May these eight attractions guide your travel and build unforgettable experience.